Doner Kebab recipe is a traditional Turkish dish made from meat that is seasoned, marinated, and slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It’s often served with warm pita, salad, and a yogurt-based sauce. While it is most commonly made with lamb, beef or chicken variations are popular as well. This Doner Kebab recipe will show you how to recreate the authentic taste of Turkish street food in your own kitchen, even if you don’t have a rotisserie at home.

Why is it Called Doner Kebab?
The term Doner Kebab comes from the Turkish word “dönmek,” which means “to turn” or “rotate,” referring to the way the meat is cooked on a rotating spit. The word “kebab” refers to grilled or skewered meats, which is common in Middle Eastern and Turkish cuisines. The method of slowly cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie allows it to become tender and juicy, creating the iconic Doner Kebab flavor we know and love today.
How Should Doner Kebab Taste?
The perfect Doner Kebab should have a well-seasoned, slightly spiced flavor with a tender and juicy texture. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices like cumin, paprika, garlic, and oregano, which give it a rich, earthy flavor. The outside of the meat is crispy due to the slow roasting, while the inside remains moist and tender. When paired with fresh vegetables, yogurt sauce, and pita, the kebab becomes a delicious blend of textures and flavors.
About Doner Kebab
Doner Kebab originated in Turkey and has become a popular dish worldwide, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. Traditionally, it was made using lamb, but beef and chicken are now commonly used. The meat is usually cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but you can recreate this dish at home by baking or grilling the marinated meat. This Doner Kebab recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the authentic flavors of Turkish street food at home.
How to Make Doner Kebab Super Yummy or Perfect?
Here’s how to make your Doner Kebab recipe stand out:
- Marinate the Meat Properly: Allow the meat to marinate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight, to ensure the spices deeply penetrate the meat.
- Use Thin Slices: The thinner the slices, the more crispy the edges will become, mimicking the rotisserie effect.
- Cook Low and Slow: If you’re not using a rotisserie, bake or grill the meat slowly at a low temperature to retain moisture while creating a crispy outer layer.
- Serve with Fresh Ingredients: Pair the kebab with fresh veggies like tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, and red onions, along with a tangy yogurt-based sauce.
- Garnish: Don’t forget a final touch of sumac or fresh parsley to enhance the visual and taste appeal.

Doner Kebab Recipe
Equipment
- Baking tray or grill
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 500 gm lamb, beef, or chicken thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or flatbread for serving
- Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
- Yogurt-based sauce (tzatziki or garlic sauce)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Marinade:In a bowl, combine cumin, paprika, garlic, oregano, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.2. Marinate the Meat:Add the thinly sliced meat to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.3. Cook the Meat:Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or heat your grill. Spread the marinated meat on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil or place it on a grill. Cook for about 1 hour, flipping halfway through. The meat should be crispy on the edges and cooked through.4. Prepare the Pita and Veggies:While the meat is cooking, slice the vegetables and warm the pita or flatbread.5. Assemble the Doner Kebab:Place a few slices of the cooked meat in the center of the pita, add fresh vegetables, and drizzle with yogurt sauce. Wrap it up and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use beef, lamb, or chicken for this recipe depending on your preference.
- Leftover Doner Kebab meat can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
Conclusion
This Doner Kebab recipe is a great way to enjoy Turkish street food at home. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a delicious, well-balanced meal that’s packed with flavor. Serve it with warm pita, a fresh salad, and a yogurt-based sauce to make it truly authentic. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, Doner Kebab is sure to be a hit.